The Premier League returns with another exciting week, as the leading teams aim to maintain their momentum while the race for the top of the table remains open. Arsenal are enjoying an excellent moment, with the best defence in Europe, while Manchester City continue to be a strong opponent, even though the club’s attention has been partly distracted by financial problems.
English sides come off the back of positive results for some of their representatives in the Champions League. Manchester United have received another boost after their recent recovery, while Aston Villa and Liverpool have suffered painful defeats.
On paper, this week is not expected to bring major changes to the balance of the championship. Arsenal appear favourites against Hull, while Manchester City are expected to have a manageable test against Nottingham Forest, who are not going through a good period.
The focus will also be on Brighton, the surprise of this season, who aim to strengthen their position in third place. The team has managed to beat the top two sides and this time will host Brentford. Chelsea and Liverpool also have fixtures where they aim for maximum points, against Sunderland and Crystal Palace respectively.
Another interesting clash is the one between Leeds and Tottenham. The team led by Roberto De Zerbi are seeking a fourth consecutive win to continue climbing the standings.
However, the most evenly contested match of the week is expected to be the one between Manchester United and Aston Villa. After the breathing space they gained in the Champions League, United must confirm their good form in the league as well, while a positive result would also be important for the future of manager Michael Carrick, whose position is described as shaky.
Fixture list
Saturday
13:30 – Leeds-Tottenham
16:00 – Arsenal-Hull
16:00 – Fulham-Newcastle
18:30 – Nottingham Forest-Manchester City
Sunday
15:00 – Brighton-Brentford
15:00 – Crystal Palace-Liverpool
15:00 – Sunderland-Chelsea
17:30 – Manchester United-Aston Villa